'"The new Tom Lee Park will be a civic space for everyone in Memphis to enjoy," principal Jeanne Gang says of the design, which is conceptualized into four zones: the "Gateway," which will link the riverfront to downtown and the Beale Street Landing port via a public plaza; the "Riffle," a central area with activity courts and river overlooks nestled into its dynamic topography; the "Pool," a network of open lawns; and the "Tailout," the wildly landscaped end of the park, where a scientist-in-residence will facilitate STEM education.'

Near the river’s edge, a central canopy floats above a set of activity courts, framing the river beyond and protecting the courts below, which can be used for sports and events. Concessions, lockers, storage, and bathrooms are located nearby.